Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I heartily add my words of congratulation to Mr. Groves on his well deserved appointment.

We have had a weekend of distress at the airports of the US and elsewhere as a result of President Trump's banning travel to seven countries that have a Muslim majority. He has turned his back on the plight of refugees. No matter a person's faith he or she deserves to be protected from conflict and helped to find safety. I add my voice to all who have appealed to President Trump to show grace and understanding to these people. His ban does not target terrorists but vulnerable people and, disproportionately, those of Islamic faith. His action cannot be defended and should not continue. It is only with understanding and co-operation can we hope to end the conflict and discourage terrorism.

On the question of the Taoiseach's visit, it is vital that he travels to Washington on our national day. It is a unique opportunity to meet President Trump face to face and deal with these issues, not least the 50,000 undocumented Irish. I am sure the Taoiseach will deal with the matter in his own inimitable way. If I may so, the Taoiseach is our trump card.